The Archbishop Mitty’s Men’s Basketball Team underwent a roster overhaul this season. Due to the significant loss of upperclassmen from the 2023-2024 team, the team has been forced to storm through the season with a vastly different roster. As such, the Monarchs have faced a transition year that has tested their resilience.
Last season, Mitty was a force in the WCAL, finishing with a 23-8 record and earning a coveted spot in the CIF Championships. However, much of that success was built on the experience and leadership of graduating seniors, including Nathan Noronha, Tyler Jones, Gavin Ripp, and many more. Their absence has left a void that has to be filled.
This change was to be expected, of course: seniors come and go every year—they’re seniors, after all. The more alarming development was the simultaneous loss of crucial players on the JV team, who were supposed to fill the gaps left by the upperclassmen. “You know, it’s a different landscape,” says Head Coach Tim Kennedy. “We had a number of players who decided to focus on their main sport and then had a few players transfer out for individual reasons.” Due to these departures, the Monarchs boast a smaller roster this season, carrying only 11 players compared to the usual 12 or 13.
Consequently, the 2024-2025 roster is relying heavily on underclassmen stepping up into larger roles. While returning players such as senior forward Grayson Jalal and junior guards Danny Ryan and Caeden Hutcherson have brought promise, the teams’ overall youth has posed challenges in high-pressure games.
Coach Kennedy remains optimistic: “Our biggest philosophy is always the Next Play Mentality. You know, especially not worrying about if we’re down big. In the next play, because there’s no 10 point basket. Just try to focus on offense or defense and winning the small competition within.” Coach Kennedy has also been determined to bring all the players together, by holding practices where all 4 teams, Freshman A and B, JV, and Varsity play together. This allows everyone to understand the program and its philosophy.
As Mitty prepares for tip-off into the CCS playoffs, fans will be watching to see how the Monarchs adapt to their new roster. One thing is certain: this year’s team is ready to embrace the challenge ahead.